One Square Mile : What is Location Photography?

Location photography can be classed as anywhere if photographs are being taken at different places rather than in a studio for example a field if it is relevant to the photography shoot. 

• When choosing a location you must take time to consider everything about the location you are choosing for example a place that looks interesting and look at different locations as well. If you have chosen your location then come back at different times of the day to choose for example early in the morning after sunrise if you want that in your photographs or the sunset. You must also take into consideration how far away it is from you and if you are prepared for a long journey to get there. 
• Positioning yourself to achieve the perfect photograph is crucial whether there are objects in the way such as tree's or buildings which cannot be moved so you must work your way around them. You may want to take photographs from a high angle or a low angle which work well for different types of photography such as a high angle for a landscape photograph. Experimenting with the location is useful for example having leading lines, lighting and even colour towards a clear focused subject or point and bringing elements to your photographs by having something in the foreground will make the photograph more interesting. 
• Before taking photographs in your chosen location you must get to know your camera and all its features to help enhance how your photographic outcome. For example the different photographic modes on your camera such as manual, aperture or shutter priority or some of the preset settings such as sports mode, portrait mode and macro mode as well as others. Adding additional camera equipment can also be used such as tripods or camera filters. Using a tripod will help with camera shake and filters can add colour, soft touches or help with lighting.
• Once you have got used to your camera you can start to develop your own technique that will make your photographs be recognised as your own. It is up to the photographer what techniques they will use. Some techniques which can be used are the rule of thirds,  making your focus not centred, using flash or how your photograph will be viewed such as having a square frame. It is best to try them all out and see which results you like best.
• Lighting is very important in location photography and any photography but natural lighting can be very dramatic in your photographs such as direct sunlight. If you don't have the desired lighting effect then using a reflector with white card or a mirror. If your location is inside you could use an external flash such as the pop up flash on your camera or a flash gun.